Reverend James Fred Byington

Reverend James Fred Byington passed from this life to his heavenly home on Saturday, June 29, 2019. A lifelong resident of east Tennessee, Rev. Byington was born on May 20, 1944.  In the 1960s, Fred, as he was known to friends and family, proudly served his country as a member of the United States Navy, serving aboard the USS Ozark.  After his military service, Fred worked at Eastman Chemical Company for many years, until his retirement in the late 1990s.  Although Fred was a stellar employee, often receiving recognition from his company, his real and enduring life’s work lay in his devotion to Christian ministry and selfless service to others.  Over the years, he played music, was part of several gospel singing groups, served in numerous ministry roles for local churches, and impacted countless lives. For nearly 30 years, Rev. Byington served as Assistant Pastor of Bethel Apostolic Church in Kingsport, TN.  His love and devotion to the church, and to the people, have left a lasting legacy.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Nell Byington; his wife of 39 years, Judy Byington; brother, Mitchell Byington; and sisters, Elsie Byington and Doris Jean Byington.

He is survived by his loving wife, Donna of Fall Branch; daughter, Margaret (Meg) Souder and husband, Duane of Rising Sun, MD; son, Chad and wife, Missy of Kingsport, TN; grandchildren, Lauren Souder, Chase Tipton, Jordan Byington, Caleb Souder, and Aaron Souder; sisters, Ruby Stewart and Opal Williams; numerous nieces and nephews; and countless beloved friends.

The family will receive friends from 4:00-7:00 pm on Tuesday, July 2, 2019 at Bethel Apostolic Church on Pinebrook Drive.  The funeral service will follow at 7:00 pm with Minister Chad Byington officiating.

The graveside service will be held on Wednesday at 11:00 am at Mill Creek Baptist Church Cemetery.  Military Rites will be conducted by American Legion Posts 3/265.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in honor of Rev. Byington may be made to Bethel Apostolic Church, 1820 Pinebrook Dr., Kingsport, TN 37660.